Forest of Dean: evening walk for nightjars

What a delightful evening! After a sweltering and muggy day our final field meeting of the year took us first to Cannop Ponds where, on the lower pond, we saw Mandarin, Mallard, Tufted duck, Mute swan, Chaffinch, Grey wagtail, Lesser black backed gull, Moorhen, Coot. No Dipper but someone saw the flash of a Kingfisher. On the upper pond saw Swifts and House martins. We watched a family of Pied wagtails charmingly dancing up and down as they caught insects by the water and returned to the waterside stones.

Next we parked near Speech House and walked up onto Crabtree Hill where we waited as the evening drew to a close. We saw Exmoor ponies and Highland cattle but no nightjars. Then, suddenly, there was the distant churring of a nightjar – and again – then a sudden brief sighting. We were returning happily when we heard the nightjar(s) several times.

It was a tricky walk back to the cars but it was another successful and enjoyable field meeting. Sadly this was Tim Fretter’s final field meeting. We owe him a huge debt of thanks for all the wonderful meetings he has arranged and led over many years. He has always been so inclusive, making sure everyone gets a good look and guidance in identifying birds. He has been keen to support new members, making them feel welcome to our friendly club.